How do I take out buildings insurance for an apartment?

Dormant VVE

It is possible that your apartment complex has a "dormant VVE. Technically speaking, there is then a unit in place. Only a dormant unit does not undertake anything. Chances are that you do not pay any contribution. The money is not used for anything.

Property insurance: difference with bought or rented apartment?

There is a significant difference between buying or renting an apartment in this context. When buying an apartment, you are the (absolute) owner. When renting, you are not the owner. This, then, is where the difference lies when it comes to taking out buildings insurance or not.

When you have purchased an apartment, it is up to you to make sure that property insurance is in place for your apartment. You may have to arrange this yourself or it may be arranged through the VVE.

Have you rented an apartment? Then you do not have to take out your own property insurance. The owner of your apartment is the landlord. The landlord should ensure that building insurance is in place. Should damage occur to the apartment due to fire, storm damage or burglary? Then this will be the landlord's responsibility. Keep in mind that damage to your belongings, such as furniture and clothing for example, will be at your expense.

Damage to (loose) personal belongings cannot be insured through buildings insurance. For this you must take out contents insurance. Do this if you want to be sure your possessions are covered in case of damage.

A supplementary building insurance apartment: how does it work?

Does your insurance go through the VVE? If so, keep a close eye on whether you are insured for a sufficient amount. Underinsurance may occur in the following cases:

• You have a larger apartment;
• You will have a more luxurious apartment;
• You replaced certain goods yourself;
  • (such as installing a luxury kitchen).

The VVE generally assumes an average contribution for your building insurance. If this amount falls below the value of your apartment, you are underinsured. Should something happen to your apartment, the full value will not be paid out. This, of course, is a terrible shame.

If you are underinsured, it is a good idea to purchase supplemental home insurance. This is designed to close the gap between your basic home insurance and the value of your apartment.

What is an apartment clause?

An apartment clause is a separate liability clause included in your insurance policy. The apartment clause means that if you experience damage due to the actions of another resident, that damage will be compensated.

Example

One floor below you, a fire starts because the occupant left a potholder on the fire. The flames are eventually extinguished, but not before your cement floor is badly damaged. It must be replaced/repaired.

Don't have an apartment clause? Then you may have to pay these costs yourself. This amount can be considerable. Therefore, always have an apartment clause included in your policy.

Taking out building insurance with Alpina: what are the benefits?

With Alpina, you are always assured that you will get the most complete coverage at the most competitive price. 48 years of experience has ensured that Alpina always gives you the best insurance advice. Taking out your insurance can be done in just a few minutes, so you are always insured for any situation.

Our customer service is only too happy to help you with questions about your (future) insurance.